A Safer Sandy River

It’s not just the cold water and fast currents in the Sandy River that can be hazardous to swimmers. Debris such as roots, trees and limbs can potentially trap someone and hold them underwater.

A few weeks ago, AMR lifeguards rescued two swimmers who we caught in a snag between two rocks just off the beach at Glenn Otto Park. After AMR notified us, the City quickly coordinated with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, MCSO River Patrol, Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL), and the Oregon Marine Board to find a solution. 

The DSL authorized the City to take action and on July 9, a contractor was able to remove the large, dangerous snag (see the photo above) and helped make our river safer for swimmers. 

As always, we urge everyone to wear a lifejacket while swimming at Glenn Otto Park. If you forget to bring one, free loaners are available for daily use.

Thank you to everyone involved!